Even Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg isn't immune from weird encounters on the social-networking site. Zuckerberg has obtained a restraining order against Pradeep Manukonda for allegedly stalking the 26-year-old CEO.
According to legal papers published by TMZ, 31-year-old Manukonda has tried to "follow, surveil, and contact Mr. Zuckerberg using language threatening to his personal safety" as well as the safety of his sister, Randi, and girlfriend, Priscilla Chan.
Manukonda sent Zuckerberg a string of messages soliciting monetary help and tried to meet Zuckerberg at several of Facebook's offices around Pal Alto. On Jan. 24 Manukonda was caught by security approaching Zuckerberg's front door, just down the street from Facebook's headquarters in Palo Alto's College Terrace neighborhood. Perhaps this has something to do with all the security cameras installed in Zuck's new house.
Although Manukonda was given a verbal warning from police, Zuckerberg's alleged stalker continued to send the young executive a string of Facebook messages asking for financial help for his family. In one message Manukonda wrote that he was "ready to die for [Zuckerberg]." He reportedly had flowers with a hand-written note delivered to his home on Jan. 28.
But Manukonda told TMZ that he will leave Zuckerberg alone.
"I'm a peaceful guy… I'm sorry he thought I was trying to harm him," he said. I understand he's a busy man… I'll respect his privacy"
Manuokonda has been ordered to stay at least 300 yards from Zuckerberg, his sister, and Chan.